Poloncarz’s Olive Branch

Erie County-elect Mark Poloncarz just issued a statement praising the man he defeated, Republican Chris Collins, for his service and expressing hope that the two can collaborate to provide a smooth transition.

“This was a very hard-fought campaign and I wish (Collins) well in his return to the private sector,” Poloncarz said.

“A lot has been made of our disagreements over the course of this campaign and I believe our views on the issues provided a stark contrast for voters to choose between. However, we have always been in absolute agreement that the County Executive is here to serve the people of Erie County to the best of his or her ability.”

“In keeping with that spirit, I am confident that Chris Collins will do everything in his power to ensure a smooth transition for my administration and for the people of Erie County. I hope that includes the dutiful maintenance of relevant documents and records as well as his valuable insight into the ongoing and upcoming issues that will require my immediate attention.”

“I look forward to meeting with Mr. Collins and his staff in the coming days to begin that process. I hope to develop a good working relationship as we proceed forward. Regardless of who wins or loses a campaign, it is our responsibility to work together to ensure the people of Erie County always win.”

Poloncarz told me during a CapTon interview last night that he never receieved a concession call from Collins. As of noon today, the two still hadn’t spoken, according to Poloncarz spokesman Peter Anderson.

“I’ve been in email contact with Mark this morning; he’s doing some more media,” Anderson told me. “And so far, Chris has not called. That’s just how he is. He’s going to hold his breath until everyone goes away. We have been hoping for a smooth transition, but it looks like that’s not going to be the case.”

There was a report election night that Collins said he hadn’t spoken to Poloncarz for four years – a statement that really streched the boundaries of truth, considering the fact that the two debated several times during the campaign.

In addition, Poloncarz has served as county comptroller for the past four years, so the idea that the two never exchanged a word was pretty out there. Poloncarz told me he had indeed spoken to the country executive – regularly, in fact – and chalked the outgoing executive’s comments up to the fact that the relationship between the two of them grew “tense” in the final months of the campaign.